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nowtravel · 3 years ago

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Seven years after we quit our jobs to travel around the world, we revisit some of the riskiest things we’ve done on the road

Peter and I have a long-running joke that I have fallen off my bike in the most beautiful places in the world – among them Bora Bora in French Polynesia and Isabela in the Galápagos. I only learnt to ride at the age of 28 and my lack of experience has led to numerous falls.

What’s interesting is that no one ever calls me ‘brave’ or ‘daring’ for riding a bicycle or indeed a horse even though statistically (and in personal experience), these activities are some of the most dangerous I’ve done.

Instead, it’s things like skydiving and bungy jumping that impress others most. Below, I share 10 seemingly dangerous things we’ve done – some of which posed a real risk, but most of which were just pure fun.

1. CHANGED A TYRE IN NAMIBIA’S LION TERRITORY

I’ll be honest: this was one of the most nerve-racking experiences I’ve ever had. Peter and I were on day 13 of our epic self-drive safari through Namibia when we got our second flat tyre in as many days.

We had spent the previous day on a 160km round-trip to the nearest garage to pick up a spare tyre after using the one we had. We’re lucky we did so, because on day 13 we bust another tyre, this time in the middle of Etosha National Park, known for its abundance of lions.

The park rules clearly state that you should never leave your vehicle. Unfortunately, there was no phone reception so we couldn’t call for assistance. We waited to see if anyone else would turn up, but Etosha is a big place and we could have been waiting for hours.

So – Peter suggested changing the tyre in lion territory. I was to keep watch and sound the horn if I saw any movement.

How was I supposed to keep a 360° watch around the vehicle? Would I be quick enough on the horn? Would we be the two stupid tourists who got killed by lions because they flouted official safety rules?

I took a deep breath and nodded. Peter worked silently and quickly while I, dripping with sweat and anxiety, carefully scanned our surroundings. Fifteen minutes later, the tyre was on and we got back in the car, laughing with relief and possibly a touch of hysteria.

Half a kilometre down the road, we stopped laughing. There, we spotted a lion lazing beneath a tree and we realised that this story could have easily ended differently.

2. CLIMBED THREE OF THE SEVEN SUMMITS

Peter has climbed three of the seven summits: Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Elbrus in Russia and Mount Aconcagua in Argentina with each climb growing progressively harder.

When I spoke to him on the phone after Elbrus, he was in high spirits. When I spoke to him after Aconcagua, however, he sounded completely exhausted. Physically, it was the hardest day of his life, he said. Several times he had considered giving up and turning around – something I’d never heard him say about a mountain before.

Aconcagua is a ‘trekkable’ mountain (i.e. no technical rope work involved), but it poses a tangible risk. At nearly 7,000m, it is believed to have the highest death rate of any mountain in South America. As dangerous endeavours go, attempting to scale the seven summits ranks pretty high on our list.

3. CROSSED A LANDSLIDE IN PERU

Crossing a landslide on our Salkantay trek in Peru seemed more thrilling than dangerous, but it posed enough of a risk to noticeably concern our guides. We trekked for an hour to try and avoid it, but when we found that a bridge had washed away, we turned around and returned to the site.

There, we picked our way across a steep slope of crumbling scree beneath a blanket of rain. Some of us fared better than others. One woman in her early twenties wept with nerves as she crossed, led by hand by two guides.

Peter and I were comparatively cavalier, but I look back now and can see that a single misstep would have ended badly.

4. HIKED TO ERTA ALE IN ETHIOPIA

The Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is one of the hottest, lowest and driest places on Earth. It’s so extreme that life has been found in pure acid here. Temperatures regularly reach 45°C (113°F) and seas of molten magma ooze just beneath the crust’s surface.

Its most impressive site is Erta Ale, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Getting there has been called ‘the hike to hell and back’ and requires a three-day trip with a military escort.

In 2012, an attack by Afar rebels left five tourists dead and four people kidnapped, and there was a deadly incident days after our own visit.

It made us reflect once again on the pros and cons of risky travel and though Erta Ale was an incredible sight, I’m not quite sure I’d do it all again.

5. JUMPED OUT OF A PLANE – TWICE

This is where we get into fun territory where the perceived danger is greater than the actual. Peter and I have skydived twice, first in the UK and then in Australia. Both times were utterly thrilling.

Interestingly, the skydive in Cairns was almost cancelled because of rain and when we passed through heavy condensation, I understood why. At that height, raindrops sting like needles as you’re falling much faster than water.

Either way, I was pleased that the weather didn’t cancel our jump. As I say in the video, it’s the closest I’ll ever get to flying… unless I take up BASE jumping that is.

6. JUMPED ONE OF THE LONGEST BUNGYS IN THE WORLD

There is a moment as you shuffle onto the ledge of the 134m Nevis Bungy in New Zealand that you think Oh Jesus. If it’s true that humans are born with two fears – loud noises and falling – then surely jumping off a ledge into an abyss goes against human nature.

On the ledge, I waved gingerly to the camera and listened to the countdown: ‘three, two, one, bungy’. Heart lurching, I leapt off with a scream.

Seconds in, I realised that my eyes were closed. I snapped them open. If I was doing this, then I would bloody well enjoy it. I felt myself plunge deep into the valley, then rush back up again. I always thought I’d hate the bouncing sensation, but the Nevis Bungy was completely smooth. I swooped towards the ground again, feeling a whirl of disbelief. It was thrilling, frightening and utterly exhilarating.

People ask me if the Nevis Bungy or skydiving was scarier. Undoubtedly, it was the bungy. Despite the far greater height, skydiving doesn’t quite feel like falling. The force of the air around you has a buoying effect. With the Nevis Bungy, you really are just falling.

7. DIVED WITH SHARKS IN THE GALÁPAGOS

Again, this was more fun than dangerous, but when people see the footage of Peter gliding into the frame above a reef shark, they’re usually inclined to gasp out loud.

On a dive in the Galápagos, we encountered dozens of whitetip reef sharks resting on the seabed. At nearly 20 metres deep, we spent several awe-inspiring minutes watching these magnificent (and chilling) beasts.

Of course, whitetip reef sharks are rarely aggressive towards humans. Unlike their Oceanic cousin, they are seldom aggressive unless provoked. They are, however, fearless and curious and will sometimes closely approach swimmers to investigate.

8. DROVE THE SANI PASS IN LESOTHO

Located in the western end of KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, Sani is a mountain pass connecting Underberg in South Africa with Mokhotlong in Lesotho. The hairpinned pass − named one of the most dangerous in the world − starts at an altitude of 1,544m and climbs to 2,876m.

Built circa 1950, Sani Pass remains a challenging drive. With winding twists, loose gravel, plunging drops and hairpins bends, it demands painstaking care and practised skill. In parts, the gradient reaches 1:3 and in treacherous conditions, has claimed lives. In fact, one of the hairpins has the rather sobering name of ‘suicide bend’.

We crossed the pass during our 2018 trip to South Africa. The progress was extremely slow but we didn’t complain. This is one occasion when it truly is better to be safe than sorry.

9. SWAM WITH WHALE SHARKS IN DJIBOUTI

The whale shark is the largest known fish species living today. It poses no threat to humans, but its sheer size can be overwhelming.

On our trip in Djibouti, our spotter pointed to the waters ahead and Peter and I jumped straight in. Alas, the whale shark headed in the opposite direction and the two boats followed, depositing passengers far closer to him. Peter and I locked eyes. We’d made the mistake of jumping too soon.

It was then that a motion caught the corner of my eye. The whale shark was headed straight in our direction. I dipped underwater and the shark swam directly towards me as I hovered in the water as if suspended in time.

His skin glittered in the light and I held my breath as he swam so close I thought his tail would hit me as he turned. His enormous bulk slid swiftly by and I exhaled, long, soft and slow.

10. SCALED A VIA FERRATA IN CATALONIA

After changing the tyre in Namibia, this is the most nerve-racking thing on the list for me. I’ve said before that I’m most nervous when I’m in charge of my own safety during risky activities. Unlike bungy jumping or skydiving where you’re never out of an expert’s hands, via ferrata requires you to change your own carabiners, meaning that an absentminded mistake could have you hurtling to the ground.

A few metres up on our via ferrata in Catalonia, my left leg began to shake uncontrollably. I’d never experienced anything like it before and I realised that I must be terrified. I remember that it had a strange, academic quality and a detached part of me thought, ‘Huh, so this is what it’s like.’

I gathered my nerves and continued up. At the top, neither Peter nor our guide, Jordi, believed me when I said that it was scarier than bungy.

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thekidultlife · 7 years ago

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#3 First Time | 30 Nights with Jeon Wonwoo |

30 Nights with Jeon Wonwoo

((This went longer than I intended. I was probably drunk when I wrote this))

You hated parties.

Like seriously, parties are a bane of your existence. No, it’s not like you hated the presence of other people—you can actually socialize without much problem— what you hated was what usually happens in college parties like the one you were invited in just now.

Parties are wild, you’re prim and proper. Parties are loud, you’re quiet and controlled. Parties are alcohol and sex, you’re studies and ambitions.

So, why are you in a party in the first place?

Well, that’s because your best friend just had to go to the biggest party of the campus and you can’t just let her run wild alone. So basically, you’re stuck in a living room holding a paper cup with cheap cocktail in it as you tried to reason to yourself that going to the party was a logical decision.

You could see one of the party’s hosts: Choi Seungcheol downing a bottle of gin as if it was water; probably lost a bet. Resident dancer Kwon Soonyoung was having a blast playing with Just Dance while Boo Seungkwan and Lee Seokmin were having a karaoke battle. There are couples scattered here and there—Wen Junhui was kissing a different chick this time as others were making out and others doing things that are supposed be in the bedroom.

Jesus Christ.

“You don’t like the party?”

Someone suddenly spoke next to you that you almost shifted away. You regarded him carefully—he was tall, that you saw immediately; and looked sort of pissed—and you recognized that he was a classmate of yours who had one of the highest grades in class but never knew his name since he blended well with Choi Seungcheol’s band of merry men.

“Don’t worry. I don’t hate your party, I hate all parties in general,” you replied coldly and took a sip of your cocktail.

You were surprised though when he suddenly laughed, his nose crinkling adorably, too adorable for your tastes, and then looked at you, quite amused.

“That’s a relief, then,” he replied and took a few considerable moments to think of a conversation starter. “I’m not too fond of parties myself.”

“Well, no shit,” you remarked, sarcasm dripping from your words. All you wanted was to stop conversing but you were too polite to just stand up and leave. Both of you were silent for a while until he began talking again.

“Oh, I’m Jeon Wonwoo, by the way,” he said after noticing the dead air between the two of you as he held out his hand. “And you are?”

You raised your brow at him and graced him a smirk. “What makes you think I’ll tell you my name?”

When you thought his innocent, dorky smile could not go any further, it then morphed into an unbelievably smug grin. Your smirk disappeared in an instant when he pulled you by the arm; leaning his lips by your ear, his breath made your heart beat rise to a few notches.

“Oh I’ll know soon enough.”

The person named Jeon Wonwoo released your arm as fast as he had seized it and stalked away, melting in the crowd of party animals. You were left on the sofa, rubbing the area where he had grabbed you as you saw him disappear.

“What the hell…”

“Y/N!” Your best friend drawled—obviously drunk—as she swung her arm around your shoulders. “This is…an awesome party…!”

“Okay, this is a sign that we should head home. Let’s go,” you remarked sternly as you tried to drag her up from the sofa.

“No waaaaaaay! Don’t wanna…go home!” she whined as your groaned and rolled your eyes. Seems like the way home will be extra hard.

“ALRIGHT PEOPLE!” You then heard the booming voice of Choi Seungcheol which made you turn your head to his direction.

No, no, no. We have to leave, like right now!

“Let’s play a game!” He continued as he dashed towards the living room and stood on top of the low coffee table. “Ever heard of the King’s Game?”

People flocked around him like a bunch of dogs, including his close friends while you were forced back on the sofa with your overly-enthusiastic and drunk best friend clapping like a seal.

Dammit it Seungcheol.

“We’ll only play with the people who are seated first on the sofas,” he made up a rule in a sudden whim and now, people were fighting over the chairs. You wanted to stand up but your best friend held on to you like dear life, so you had no choice but sit grumpily and waited for the stupid game to begin.

When things finally cleared up, you saw that there were ten people participating in the game—three random girls you never met, Seungcheol, Jeonghan, Soonyoung, Jun, your best friend and you—wait, that wasn’t ten right?

You eyed everyone carefully and finally spotted the final player—Jeon Wonwoo, who gave you a devious smile, much to your chagrin.

“Jun’s looking at me, Y/N!” Your friend giggled at your side, punching your arm lightly as you rolled your eyes once more.

“Sure, just use protection,” you replied nonchalantly, as your eyes travelled around the room and finally landing on Jeon Wonwoo’s perfectly sculpted jawline.

“Alright, let’s start!” Seungcheol said, all eyes on him. On his hands was a mug with ten wooden sticks in it; you never heard of the game so you patiently waited for the instructions.

“So I’m gonna walk around and you guys have to pick a stick. It’s numbered one to nine but there’s only one marked with a crown, so whoever gets that is the “King”. The King can pick as many numbers as he wants and order them to do something. Ok?”

Seungcheol explained clearly and you nodded immediately. Simple game. The game began as the mug gets passed around. You picked one without too much fuss and passed it on to the next person.

“Who’s the King?” Soonyoung asked as everyone was done and you jumped a little when your best friend shouted so excitedly.

“I am! I am!” She beamed and then paused for a while to think. “I order number 5 and 9 to do a French kiss and…then, locked in a room for an hour!”

As you heard your friend bark her orders, you turned to her as if she was mad—who would want to lock up two people together for an hour?!

However, you’re the only one who thought it was ridiculous. Everyone seemed to be quite hyped about it and was talking non-stop, looking for the two victims.

“Who is it? Who is it?!” Seungcheol asked, quite giddy and animated himself.

You glanced down on the stick on your hands and smiled confidently as you saw that it was a 6. The other players were still looking for player nine and five yet it eventually became suspiciously long enough.

“There’s no number nine?” Jeonghan asked finally and you frowned instantly. “Seungcheol, did you miss a number?”

“No! I swear I didn’t!” the other guy denied and the room was suddenly filled with chaos, all desperate for the number nine.

“Y/N, yours isn’t six!” Your lightheaded best friend remarked and you froze. She then turned the stick on your hands like a little girl demonstrating the right way to play a toy, and you saw that indeed, she was right. “Ta-daa! It’s a nine!”

Well fuck.

Feeling relieved that the game was back on, Seungcheol began to announce. “So, Y/N’s nine and number five is—“

“It’s me,” a deep voice interrupted him and you shot your glance at the person’s direction, only to look straight into dark cold eyes.

Jeon Wonwoo. It’s Jeon Wonwoo.

You inwardly panic, unable to think of a way to get out as you were forced to stand up. Your best friend was cheering quite loudly, yet you don’t feel like celebrating at all. French kissing a stranger was never in your alley yet peer pressure was crushing you from all sides that your usual courage disappeared like a bubble. Wonwoo gradually approached you with a blank expression which you could not read and simply eyed everything except Wonwoo.

Flustering at how he was already in front of you, you could see that he wasn’t that comfortable with everyone watching either. However, he hid it with his perfectly constructed smirk which you hated with every fiber of your being. You were nervous yet everyone was being too loud and eager that it was wringing your nerves.

Ah fuck it!

Breathing in a dose of bravery, you seized the collar of his dress shirt and kissed him square on the lips. At first, Wonwoo was surprised but eventually responded—his tongue entering your mouth right away. You swore a shudder raced down your spine as both of you battled for dominance. His lips felt so soft against yours and his hands which was now on your waist was beginning to crawl underneath your sweater and it felt heavenly. You weren’t supposed to enjoy this but you were.

“Okay, okay, enough! Just get them a room please!” Seungcheol exclaimed suddenly and you were brought down from your daze. But before you could protest, both of you were already being shoved in a nearby room—all locked up for a goddamn hour.

“Fucking little—! I swear I’ll—!” Unable to finish any of your sentences because if how flustered you were, you finally crouched down on the floor with head downcast; totally and completely pissed. “What am I going to do?”

“You…you’re not going to cry, are you?” The other person in the room asked and you looked up at him with a frown. It was easy to forget how you were not alone in the damn room.

“I’m closer to murdering someone right now than crying, you know,” you straight up replied with jaded eyes yet he still had the nerve to laugh. He slid down on the floor next to you with his rather adorable smile.

“I hope it’s not me then,” Wonwoo said amusingly as you continued to stare at him.

Because of all the chaos of pushing you two inside the room, you had totally forgotten than you were kissing this person a few minutes ago. You still remember how he felt on your lips after all. Your eyes wandered towards his distractingly pink lips and it made you feel weird all over, so you mentally slapped yourself for acting in such a way.

“Fine. I’ll tell you my name,” You broke the silence as you pouted. “I’m—“

“Y/N. I know,” Wonwoo interrupted with a playful grin. “How? We’re in the same literature class.”

When you heard him, you wanted to strangle him then and there for playing with you yet you don’t have the guts to touch him. Without any other choice, you opted to throw verbal threats even though they were all empty words.

“You know, there’s a huge possibility that I’ll end up killing you tonight,” you replied with narrowed eyes yet his expression remained the same.

“Instead of killing me, how about kissing me again?” Wonwoo suggested as he sported his smug grin which you hated for causing your stomach to do weird turns. “You liked it, didn’t you?”

“No, I didn’t.”

“Well if that’s the case, I’ll do a better job this time.”

“You’re strangely persistent.”

“Is it my fault if you sound so damn sexy every time you read a line from Shakespeare?”

By that time, Wonwoo was only inches away from your face and you almost stopped breathing. You couldn’t believe what you just heard; it almost seemed like he had a crush on you. You wanted to ask him straightforwardly yet the words which came from your lips was not what you had intended.

“You…do you have a kink for Shakespeare?”

Wonwoo laughed right away. Of course, he would be fucking laughing. You wanted to facepalm yourself for being such an idiot.

“Sorry but I don’t,” he continued right after he had recovered from laughing, “though, I think I might have a kink for that feisty mouth of yours.”

You froze solid under his intense gaze which did not discourage him to move closer to you. His hand wandered towards the nape of your neck as you simply gazed into his eyes; completely mesmerized. Your breath hitched as you felt his lips on yours for the second time tonight; your eyes widening upon realizing what was happening yet unable to do anything because of how flustered you were.

Wonwoo nibbled on your lower lip gently as he turned his head to the side to taste you much better. His tongue grazed over your lip—almost asking for permission to continue—and you who was gradually melting into the kiss, parted your lips. Wishing for something to hold on to, your hands moved its way towards his broad shoulders as you let him play with your tongue.

Eventually, he detached himself from you yet continued his ministrations on your neck. Wonwoo ghosted his lips over your skin which made you flinch, earning an amused chuckle from him. You were beginning to feel your arousal increasing as his other hand went for your waist, inching closer to your warm skin. He earned a gasp from you as he sucked at the junction between your neck and shoulder and this encouraged him to do more.

You knew that this was not a good idea—you’re a straight-laced honor student, all logical and presumptuous—but fuck, his kisses are so euphoric, so addicting. Under all the layers of denial, you knew you wanted to do this once in your life—just letting go and enjoying what was in front of you. You wanted to know what it feels like to just feel and not think.

Just once.

“Wonwoo…!” You moaned, your hands buried in his raven locks as he bit a particular part on your neck. He pushed you down on the floor, him hovering on top of you while nibbling on your collarbone. Wonwoo then slid his hands under your sweater, caressing the small of your back as you bit your lip to hide a rather loud groan yet it still came out as a whimper.

“If you keep doing that, I won’t be able to stop,” he whispered to your ear, gliding his tongue over your earlobe.

“Then…don’t stop,” you replied with a gasp, pulling his hair slightly as he pecked behind your ear. He hummed pleasingly as your nails dug onto his nape, knowing it will remain until the next morning.

“What would you want me to do, baby girl?” Wonwoo teased, his hands making its way to your bra-covered chest. “It’ll be so much fun to have my cock between those lips, sucking me off like a little slut, or would you like me to fuck you so hard that you’ll only scream my name?”

Being dirty talked was unexpectedly erotic for you as you felt warmth pooling between your legs. You didn’t even notice him removing your sweater and jeans as how you were so distracted by the way he kissed from your stomach to your cleavage. Wonwoo then unclasped your bra and threw it somewhere in the room; lapping and groping your breasts.

You let out a small moan when you felt his hand gliding up your inner thigh. Sure that you were drenched down below, you didn’t want him to know how you were so aroused. You closed your legs together, only to be stopped by him. Wonwoo lightly traced his finger on your wet underwear and gave a proud grin.

“You’re so wet for me, Y/N. What ever should we do?” He chuckled menacingly, still teasing your entrance.

You glared at him for trying to goad you and was being stubborn for a moment. However, your attitude vanished as he pulled your panties down and continued touching you down there, everywhere but your entrance.

“Well?” Wonwoo asked once more while roughly playing with your hardened nipple. You were desperate for him to fill you up; you needed him, you wanted him to kindle the fire he had started.

Biting your lip, you grabbed his hand and guided his digits to your entrance and pleaded with half-lidded eyes. “Please, Wonwoo…I want you inside me.”

Without giving any warning, he suddenly thrusted a finger inside you; making you gasp out loud and arch your back. He curled his finger up and then pulled out before pushing back inside—he repeated until the foreign feeling of his long slender fingers in you felt unbelievably pleasurable.

“My baby girl is so beautiful,” Wonwoo whispered on your lips as he bit and nibbled on them. He began to unbutton his dress shirt and you reveled on how his dewy skin looked so utterly delectable.

As he added another finger in you, you felt a knot gradually forming along with how your breath hitched and your head felt floating. You bucked your hips against his digits, moaning his name repeatedly. Feeling like you were about to burst, you however sensed that he had pulled out of you. Wonwoo stopped with a smirk on his face and you looked at him incredulously.

“Don’t look so frightened, I won’t leave you like that,” he pecked your swollen lips as he tossed away his dress shirt and stood up, picking your feeble body from the floor and to a nearby mattress.

Despite being physically drained, you understood what was going to happen next and you trembled in excitement. You could hear Wonwoo unbuckle his belt and discard his pants by the foot of the bed. You saw how aroused he was with the bulge in his boxers, the tip almost peeking out. He then crawled onto the bed which dipped due to his weight and hovered a few inches above you.

Wonwoo leaned his head to you and kissed you slowly and languidly, trying to etch the memory of your lips in his mind. He then moved down your body, sprinkling small pecks and licks on the way as you grasped the sheets. Spreading your legs apart, Wonwoo bit and sucked on your inner thighs until he could see his marks all over them. He then licked your slit which made you whine in surprise, and sucked on your sensitive clit. Of course, his actions drove you to the edge and you desperately held on to his head, not knowing what to do with all the overwhelming sensations you felt.

“W-Wonwoo…!” You cried out his name as you felt your climax coming yet he denied you the pleasure for the second time by moving away which made you want to just sob.

“Trust me, baby girl. I’ll make you feel good in a sec,” he assured you as he finally slipped out of his boxers, his dick hard against his stomach. He then opened a condom packet he found in one of the drawers and slipped it into his length. Seeing his size, you seemed worried for a moment.

Oh god, he’s large.

He knelt before you, palming his length with hooded eyes as you finally felt the gravity of what you were about to do. Wonwoo settled between your legs as he crept above you, giving you small chaste kisses on your jawline as he aligned himself to you.

“Please…don’t be too rough…” you struggled with your words but managed to catch your breath, “it’s my first time.”

He smiled at you and placed a peck on your forehead. “I will, so relax.”

Wonwoo began to thrust in you slowly as you formed an ‘o’ on your lips. Tears formed at the side of your eyes while you grabbed on to his shoulders for support. When he had finally sheathed himself fully in you, Wonwoo pressed his lips on yours to distract you from the pain.

Both of you stayed that way for several minutes until the uncomfortable feeling subsided and you gave him the signal to begin moving. He started gentle and languid, trying not to shock you yet your walls clamped around him so firmly that he was grunting most of the time.

“Fuck, you’re so tight,” He exclaimed as he tried to reign himself.

You were clawing on his back as the pain slowly turned into pleasure. Watching him groan above you looked so arousing that your walls clench as he growled a few swears.

“Wonwoo…!”

His name tumbled on your lips repeatedly as he thrusted in you, each increasing in speed and intensity. Wonwoo’s hand then wounded its way to your sensitive bud and rubbed your clit with the pad of his thumb. This sent you over to a frenzy as you arched your back in pleasure. A familiar pool was forming on your stomach as he grabbed your ankle and swung your leg over his shoulder. Now, you felt him much deeper than before.

“Baby, you take my cock so well,” he murmured to you before diving into your lips, feeling his groans vibrate in your lips.

His other hand grabbed your hips and pounded into you roughly, his movements becoming irregular. With a few thrusts, you found yourself snapping and climaxed around his length. Wonwoo soon followed after, filling the condom with his cum. Taking a few breaths, he pulled out of you and tied the used condom to throw away. He then settled next to you, kissing your cheek with an adorable smile on his lips as he wrapped an arm around your waist.

“How’s that for a first time?” he asked you with a grin.

Admin Hyeri

#seventeen #seventeen smut #seventeen scenarios #seventeen fanfic #wonwoo #jeon wonwoo

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krazishroomlady-blog · 7 years ago

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1. Is there anyone of your friends that you would ever consider having sex with? Oh yeah! I know this really pretty chick. 2. What side of the bed do you sleep on? Both, but I have to fall asleep on my right because if I fall asleep on my left, I have an instant nightmare. 3. Do you love someone on your friends list? Nope. 4. Has anyone ever gone beyond your personal line of respect sexually? I don’t think so. 5. Have you ever kissed or had sex with someone of the same sex? Not yet; but I have kissed 2 girls. 6. Does anyone have naughty pics of you or are you on film? Yeah they do. I know that for a fact. ;) 7. How many people have you slept with? Slept with? LOL none. Saving that for someone special. But I have made out with a ton of people and had done stupid things LOL. 8. If you cheated on your lover how would you tell them? Direct and blunt like I always do. 9. What would you do if you were cheated on? Be pissed and upset. 10. What is one of your favorite quotes? Hmmm 11. What’s your favorite indoor/outdoor activity? Indoor: Reading and surfing the internet, as well as clearing my mind and observing everything around me. 12. If you could throw any kind of party, what would it be like and what would it be for? I’d throw a psychedelic party and trip the fuck out at a rental house for a week straight with all my peeps. 13. If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor? I sadly don’t have anyone I’d consider that because I’m always the one being there for everyone. 14. If you could witness any event past, present or future, what would it be? There are many so that’d be hard to choose; but I’d have to say May Weekend 2016 because party hopping until 7am was the best night of my life. One of the many best nights. That, and I’d def re-live that mushroom trip in VT. Most spiritual night of my LIFE!!! 15. Which celebrity do you get mistaken for? No one. 16. Have you ever had something happen to you that you thought was bad but it turned out to be for the best? The time I got caught masterbating in public? LOL 17. What was the last movie, TV show or book that made you cry or tear up? Hmmm I actually don’t know. It’s hard to make me cry. 18. What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done? Can’t think of anything. 19. What was the last experience that made you a stronger person? Being on my own while abroad and tripping psychedelics definitely helped me grow as a person. 20. When was the last time you had an amazing meal? Last night! I love my food. 21. What’s the best/worst gift you’ve ever given/received? My sports car! And no worst gift-- I take all my gifts special to heart. ^_^ 22. What story does your family always tell about you? Who knows ha ha . My family is so broken it’s not even funny. But my mom does like to brag to strangers that I visited 12 countries and it annoys me so much because I know there are a lot of people out there who are not as fortunate as I am. 23. If you had a super power what would it be? To fly ^_^ Thus, I can travel better, for free, and to any destination! 24. If you woke up tomorrow with no fear, what would you do first? I don’t have fear. I’m not an anxious person. 25. If you could change one law of your country, what would it be? Hmmm.. To legalize psychedelics. It helps so many people on so many levels! 26. Have you ever expected ‘love in return’? Did you get it? Wtf does this mean? I’ve been in love before, yes, and it was wonderful, yet ended badly and now I have trust issues. But they’re getting better. 27. When did you last laugh so much, it hurt? When I tripped balls on mushrooms. That was the hardest I’ve ever laughed in my life and it’s hard to get me to laugh these days. I like never laugh anymore. :( 28. What’s the most marvellous thing you have ever seen with your own eyes? The world as seen on psychedelics. 29. What’s your number one priority? To be free and to forever live free. 30. Who do you need to get in touch with because it’s been to long? Jenny V, man!! I miss my older sis :’( 31. What relationships have ended? But you can’t let go? I let it go about a year ago but it hurt me for so long and was so hard. 32. Are you a starter or a finisher? Starter. A lot of things that I do out of hobbies, I end up never finishing. 33. When did you last do something for nothing in return? I always do that. 34. When did your heart last ‘skip a beat’? Why? I believe I last felt that when I was in love or had a crush on someone. 35. Who in your life do you wish you’d met sooner? I believe everyone comes into your life at perfect timing, so the answer would be no one. 36. Do you always want the answer to ‘what are you thinking about?’ Yes. 37. How are things going for you, now? Pretty good. 38. Is a year past more important than the next hour to come? No. The past can stay in the past. Better things are to come! 39. Do your practice ‘self love’ or ‘self loathing’? If self love is equivalent to masterbating, then yes. 40. What scares you about your future? Does it matter if it isn’t even here yet? Not being free and possibly being trapped in this state and trapped in the same old situation. I try to be patient because I know one day I will miss these days. 41. If you had to move country tomorrow, where would you go? Fuck yeah! Switzerland in a heartbeat!! 42. What aspects of you, do you keep hidden from close friends but expose to loved ones? How caring and romantic I am deep down. 43. Are you a goal setter or a ‘whatever will be, will be’ person? When I get bursts of energy, I am a goal setter. But if I already did something that needed to be done, then I am a “whatever will be, will be” kind of person. 44. How would you hate to be described? As a slut. Because everyone assumes just because I’m flirty and have “flings” that I’m not a virgin, but I secretly am. 45. Is trust more important than love, or is it the other way round? Trust must come before love or else love won’t exist. 46. If you could erase an event from your mind, which one would you choose? Verbal beatings from my past. 47. What makes you special, unique and talented? Get to know me and you’ll see ;) 48. What negative experience keep happening time and time again for you? When are you going to learn from them? Uhm not much except for boredom. I guess I can try new things, but it feels like I’ve already done everything. 49. Are you making your difference in the world or stagnating? I’d hope I’m making a difference, even if they’re the littlest of differences in life. 50. What are you thankful for, this moment? My life and the opportunities I’ve had. 51. What (or whom) drains your energy, why do you let it happen? Long road trips, ha. 52. Do you need to see things before you believe them? Yes. 53. Who are you? *** 54. What are the 3 most important things everyone should know about you? Fun-loving, adventurous, free-spirited 55. Are you more child-like or childish? Child-like because I am mature. 56. Does time really heal all wounds? Yes. 57. Do you tend to be aware of what is going on around you? Always. 58. What is the truest thing that you know? Deep down, we are all human. 59. Are you more of a giver or a taker? Giver 60. 24. Who have you hugged today or yesterday? No one. Shit is rare. 61. 25. Who has done something these days to show they care about you? Hmmm. Well, I’m used to my dad showing that but it’d be nice to see someone else come through for once. 62. Which do you remember the longest: what other people say, what other people do or how other people make you feel? A wise quote once said, “You forget what people say, but you always remember how they made you feel.” 63. What small thing annoys you so much it should be a crime? People who complain. 64. What qualities made you fall in love with your partner? I’m single. But I like people who are caring. 65. Describe your partner in one word? I’m single. 66. How did you know you had fallen out of love with a person? When lies were revealed and there was no-longer a connection. 67. Have you ever had something really good come out of something really bad that happened to you? Can’t think of anything 68. Have you ever MEANT to hurt anyone? I’d hope not. 69. Would you rather be guaranteed to have your dream job or never be heartbroken? First one because the second one already happened. 70. How many lovers have you had? No idea. I’ve made out with a ton of people. 71. You are alone with your lover’s diary. What do you do? Read it!! 72. What frustrates you? Nothing. 73. What gives you inner strength? God. 74. What causes you to panic? Nothing. 75. Have you ever saved someone’s life or had your life saved? Idk 76. Would you consider yourself to be romantic? Oh yeah 77. Is it better to be wanted or needed? Needed because wanting is desperate. 78. Who owes you an apology? My ex for all the lies. Fuck that. 79. What was the last compliment you received ? That I’m very beautiful! 80. Do you lie your way out of things? No. 81. How old were you when you went on your first date? I think 16 82. What would be the perfect gift for you? A ticket to get out of here. That or mushrooms. 83. What’s the worst thing you’ve done to someone you loved? Nothing because I loved with all my heart. 84. What is one simple thing that gives you the happy shivers? Mushrooms and traveling. 85. Have you ever fired a gun? Nope 86. Would you ever date someone outside of your race or religion? Yeah 87. Are you someone that others call when they’re having a problem and want to talk about it? BY. FAR. 88. Do you believe that there is someone perfect for everyone or that people just fall in love with who ever they are with at the time? Either or. 89. Have you ever fallen in love with someone you shouldn’t have? I guess 90. Would you kill an innocent person if you thought it might mean saving a dozen other people? No idea how I’d react in that moment. Ask me after. 91. What are some of the wildest animals you’ve ever touched? ;) 92. Are you a hugger or a non-hugger? Why? Sometimes lol, because hugging is nice, but it would also be nice to feel again. 93. What’s something about yourself that you hope will change, but that probably never will? I have no idea. I love myself. But I do wish I could somehow, someway become more intune with my emotions. I hate feeling numb all the time. I think it’s because I’m scared of becoming hurt again. 94. Did you ever cheat on a school exam? Yup 95. If you could restore one broken relation- ship, which one would you choose? Oh God none of them. 96. How do you define “true love”? Let it define itself. Every love is different. 97. What’s unforgivable? Lying. 98. What do you suspect people say about you behind your back? That I’m a great listener, fun adventure buddy and a great friend who has tons of energy. 99. What’s an example of your passive-aggressive side? Not responding or replying to texts for weeks or months. 100. How have you dealt with loss in your life? Not good but I’ve accepted it and learned they all ended for the better and the people who died are watching over me. ^_^ 101. What silly thing have you done in the name of love? Can’t remember. 102. In relationships, are you more often the “heartbreaker” or the “heart broken”? Why? Either or 103. How many times have you really been in love? One. 104. How many times have you had a broken heart? One. 105. Who has loved you more than anyone else in your life? I don’t know lol I think my dad. 106. What brings a tear to your eye? When I really think about it, my past. But that doesn’t bring a tear to my eye anymore because that VT mushroom trip helped me get over that. 107. What’s weighing heavy on your heart these days? Nothing. But I am disappointed that so many people lost the true meaning of communication. 108. Is there someone in your life who has never (or rarely) let you down? How long have you known this person? My dad. He’s always been there for me and has never let me down. 109. What do you want? Love and to feel emotions again. Tired of using mushrooms to feel. 110. Are you in love with anyone? Not at the moment. 111. Who was the last person you kissed? Was it Kevin? Wait, no, it was Gabriel, I believe. Jeez, LOL, I can never keep track. 112. Who you wanna kiss really badly? He heeee 113. The last person you talked to? Probably my dad 114. Do you still have feelings for an ex? Deep down, but thankfully, they’re almost gone. 115. Do you think about other people in your life and how you affect them? Sometimes. 116. Is there someone you wish to teach a lesson, and still haven’t? Nope. 117. Are you comfortable talking to strangers? Definitely. 118. What are the three basic factors you look for, in a partner? Caring, compassion, and understanding. 119. Is there a feeling you are trying to ignore? What is it? My emotions because I’m afraid of getting hurt and lied to again. 120. Do you love me? I have no idea who you are. 121. Are you attracted to other people? Yeah. 122. What are your views on commitment and marriage? Committment scares me but I do hope to get married one day. I know. I’m full of contradictions. 123. Do I make you feel safe and secure? No idea who you are. 124. Does your first love still hold a special place in your heart? Forever and always will. <3 125. Have you been in a relationship before, and if so, why did you break up? Yes and it hurt.

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shannrussell-blog1 · 5 years ago

Photo

Courage. Endurance. Mateship. Sacrifice. Engraved upon the four pillars that stand at the memorial site near the village of Isurava, it’s these values that the Kokoda Track symbolises for many Australians.

Equal parts a physical and mental challenge, it’s also somewhat of a spiritual pilgrimage, honouring the personal sacrifices of the diggers who fought a bloody campaign here over 75 years ago, as you follow in their footsteps.

Where in Papua New Guinea is the Kokoda Track?

The network of native walking tracks that make up the ‘Kokoda Track’ stretch from coast to coast. The section most popular for adventurous souls to tackle stretches 96km over the Owen Stanley Range, between the village of Kokoda and Owers’ Corner. Owers’ Corner is some 50km or so east of Port Moresby, and accessible via road.

It would not be considered a long hike in terms of straight distance, however, to assume that this means it’s an easy trek is naïve, to say the least! The Track takes you through some incredibly treacherous and isolated terrain, as you cross the saw-toothed mountains.

The Kokoda track stretches from coast to coast. Photo: Daniel Milne

How long is the trek?

As far as time is concerned, most trekking companies allow 8-9 days to cover the distance, and this breaks down to roughly 7-8 hours hiking a day.

The tour we booked through Adventure Kokoda was 8 days in total, travelling North to South, Kokoda to Owers’ Corner.

The view as you fly over the Owen Stanley Range, whilst stunning, also gives you a good idea of the steep terrain you’re in for! Photo: Daniel Milne

How do you get there?

If you’re uncomfortable with flying then Kokoda isn’t for you, as there is a 40-minute flight between Kokoda and Port Moresby, regardless of which direction you hike.

Your only safe option is to head from Owers’ Corner to Kokoda, then turn around when you get there and walk back! By the time you arrive in Kokoda though, I can guarantee the flight will seem the better prospect!

Walking the Kokoda Track with my father is something we have spoken about for nearly a decade. It was a wonderful experience to share with him. Photo: Daniel Milne

Why Kokoda?

The allure of Kokoda lies not only in the obvious challenges of getting yourself from one end to the other, but also in the rich war history that, like the shrouding mist that often rolls in of an afternoon, hangs heavy over the track.

Brigade Hill, which we reached on day 5, is the site of a particularly bloody battle. The red poppies that adorn the stumps erected here in honour of the fallen soldiers, is a moving image.

For those interested in Australia’s wartime history, the Kokoda campaign is considered by many to be up there with Gallipoli in terms of significance. For me, it’s arguably of even greater importance though, being that:

It was fought so close to home soil

It involved both militia and AIF soldiers fighting side-by-side for the first time

This isn’t the time or place for a history lesson, but even with a limited knowledge of the Kokoda campaign one can’t help but be moved when you stand in the exact spot where battles raged over 75 years prior, and listen to the stories of the incredible bravery and heroism that shone through.

Dawn service at the Isurava memorial site – simultaneously sobering and stirring. Photo: Daniel Milne

Training and preparation

Kokoda tests you in many surprising ways. In a group that ranged in age from 20 to 64 years old, there was not a single person in our cohort who did not have a moment that pushed them to their limit, and then beyond it.

Whilst you can train and prepare yourself to take on the distance and terrain of Kokoda, there are certain elements that are more difficult/impossible to simulate. You may have to contend with challenges such as:

Possible injury

Food poisoning or stomach upsets (which could, as in my personal experience, have you ducking off the track into the bush when suddenly caught short).

Quagmires of thick mud

The ever-oppressive, energy-sapping, drench-your-clothes-in-5-minutes humidity

10+ hour days on the track

Early starts (4 am), and hiking in the dark, with a head torch.

Social media withdrawal – an issue for Gen-Y and younger. With limited patches of reception along the track, and NO power available, your phone is only good for taking photos and using as an alarm – until the battery runs out!

It wasn’t easy to grip the thin logs strategically placed across the thick, ankle-deep quagmires of mud we often had to cross. Photo: Daniel Milne

Physical and mental stamina requirements for Kokoda

Kokoda requires a high level of stamina, both physically AND mentally. Of course the more fitness training and hiking you do in preparation, the better foundation you’ll give yourself to handle any of these elements (phone withdrawal aside) if and when they arise.

You may potentially get away with limited training if you’re a young person with above-average athleticism. As any sportsman will tell you, though, general fitness and MATCH fitness are two completely different things.

You’ve got to prepare for the physical and mental challenges of the track. Here’s one of the tamer creek crossings. Photo: Daniel Milne

Training for the track

The best way to simulate the conditions on the track is with long multi-day hikes. The more days you can string together the better.

Getting time off work/escaping worldly responsibilities/etc. is easier said than done. You may, like us, have to settle for a few two-day weekend hikes to test out yourself and your gear. The guide given to us by our tour company suggested ensuring that you’re walking a decent distance EVERY DAY (5-10km) in the last couple of weeks leading up to your trek, to really get the legs prepared for continual use!

Just walking isn’t enough, though. The terrain along Kokoda is anything but flat – the gradient is always changing, and nearly always steep, so find yourself a way to simulate that. Long walks along the footpath through your neighbourhood won’t cut it – you need to get climbing!

On a multi-day hike, you’re going to be carrying a daypack or rucksack, so it’s important to train WITH a rucksack, WITH weight in it! Going a bit heavier than you plan on carrying on the Track won’t kill you, either!

The descents are often more treacherous than the climbs, and you’ve got to watch your footing in the slippery conditions. Those who had a carrier were grateful for the extra pair of hands following them, ever-ready to catch them when (not if) they slipped. Photo: Daniel Milne

Training for city dwellers

If you live in the city, as many of us do, and struggle to get out to the bush then fear not, for I have a simple training regime that is as follows:

Put on a daypack.

Find the largest set of stairs possible (ideally more than 80 flights).

Walk up said stairs.

Once at the top, turn around and come back down.

Repeat this process at least 20 times.

Congratulations, you are now prepared to take on a morning’s hike on the Kokoda Track!

Time of shot: 6:35 am. We’d been trekking since 5 am, in the dark – the trade-off of which was getting to witness a pretty stunning sunrise. Photo: Daniel Milne

Health and vaccination checks

Above and beyond getting your fitness up to scratch, it’s important your vaccinations are in order. Whilst there are no vaccinations required for entry to PNG, the ones recommended to us were for Cholera, Typhoid and Hepatitis-A, as well as ensuring our tetanus shots were up to date.

On top of this, it’s VITAL that you have anti-malaria medication. Doxycycline is a popular choice, however, a number of people have had adverse reactions to this. It’s important to note that these reactions often only show up when the body is under stress – as it will be on the track!

My father and I opted for Larium, an alternative medication available via prescription. Though, it’s best to discuss the options with your GP.

Our trekking cohort: 12 trekkers, and 18 crew – personal carriers, gear carriers, and food carriers, as well as a medic, head guide, and our trek leader, Bernie. Photo: Daniel Milne.

Tour guide or no tour guide?

There are many reputable companies that run treks along the Kokoda Track. While going with a trekking company may seem a more expensive option, the benefits far outweigh the costs. For us, the logistics of accommodation (both either end of the trek, as well as the campsite bookings), trekking permits, transfers, meals, etc., were all taken care of by Adventure Kokoda. In the months leading up to our trek, they sent us suggested physical training guidelines, as well as a planning guide covering the essentials.

On the track, having someone, as experienced as our trek leader Bernie (with 44 treks under his belt), put our collective mind at ease when it came to how we were fairing each day, whether we needed to pick up the pace, etc. Bernie was also a wealth of knowledge about the WWII history side of things, and we had daily ‘battle briefings’ about what battles took place at each location, etc. This gave us a much deeper appreciation for it all and enriched what I had read prior to leaving.

Above all else is the safety of being in a large, organised group. The Track spans a vast stretch of isolated terrain, and in case of emergency, the trekking company has UHF and satellite phone communication available.

A motley crew of adventurous souls – strangers to each other at the start, but the friendships forged in the fire of Kokoda will last for many years. Photo: Daniel Milne

Carrier or no carrier?

If you’re going with a trekking company then chances are you will have the option of a carrier for your rucksack. In my humble opinion, this is an option that most people, particularly those over 50 (no offence to those 50+ year-olds who are absolute fitness guns), should consider. It can mean the difference between being able to enjoy the experience of Kokoda and having to withdraw from the trek.

I set myself (29-year-old male, with a decent level of general fitness) the challenge of carrying my own pack, and made sure that I undertook a number of long hikes carrying weight in the lead-up, to ensure that I was well-prepared.

Even then, I found it challenging, thanks in no small part to the humidity and extra fluid I was constantly having to replace through sweat-loss – which leads me to…

We spent every moment in camp making sure our feet were dry, powdering them, and applying layers of tape or Band-Aids on potential blisters. Meanwhile, the carriers happily strolled along the entire Track in BARE FEET… Kind of makes you feel a bit soft. Photo: Daniel Milne

Useful Gear to take

Below is a short list of some very useful items you may or may not have considered, that I found to be of great use:

Clothes made of a lightweight material

Long sleeves are recommended for protection from mozzies/the sun/stings and scratches. Don’t go packing heavy cotton work shirts or similar – you’ll be sweating buckets as it is, without adding a personal oven bag.

A hydration bladder

Being able to keep hydrated without stopping to get a water bottle out of your bag all the time is a big plus.

Purification tablets

There are plenty of freshwater streams to fill up your water bottle along the way, but not all of them are guaranteed potable water, so having your puri-tabs handy is a must.

Blister-block pads

Nothing worse than getting a blister on the first or second day and having to then deal with the discomfort for the rest of the trek. Whack one of these on any “hotspots” and you’ll save yourself some strife further along.

Dry sack(s)

Having dry clothes at the end of the day is a luxury that you do not want to surrender, and a good dry sack will help ensure that you have just that, by keeping all your essentials sealed up within your rucksack even if that gets wet.

Tea tree oil

Really handy for helping dry out your feet in the evenings, and also stopping any bacteria from building up and turning into something nasty. I found a spray bottle full of antibacterial goodness at the chemist, which had the added benefit and marvellous fragrance of lavender and eucalyptus oil. This also saved me having to touch my feet and then spread the scent onto anything I subsequently touched.

Compression tights or shorts

These were an absolute lifesaver when it came to preventing chafing.

A firm-soled hiking boot with a good tread

In terrain such as that on the track, I would value tread over flexion, as you’ll need as much grip as possible on muddy inclines and declines.

Spotting the arches at the end of the track certainly spurs you on up the last climb to Owers’ Corner.

Tips and advice

There are many great books written about the Kokoda Track. Having an understanding of the history of the campaign allows you to relate more easily to the events from over 75 years ago when standing in the various locations.

This, in turn, allows you to draw inspiration from these stories when you yourself are struggling along at times (and there will be those times!)

Relics such as this ammunitions site were remarkable to see, left relatively untouched since the war itself. Photo: Daniel Milne

There are a few simple facts that you need to accept if you decide to take on the Kokoda Track:

You are going to be wet whilst walking, due to:

Sweat

Rain

Both

You are going to be wet even BEFORE you START walking, due to:

Sweat

Rain

Both

You are going to be uncomfortable, and feel fatigued at times.

You won’t have hot showers or other home luxuries.

Despite the above points, you will be warm and (relatively) dry at night. You’ll also be fed three square meals a day, know when you’re returning home, and don’t have anyone shooting at you.

If you keep this last point in mind and remember to train hard in the lead-up, then you’ll have a truly enjoyable and rewarding experience on the incredible Kokoda Track. Now get training!

En route to the airport, we made a stop at Bomana War Cemetery, to pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Lest we forget. Photo: Daniel Milne

Are any of you up for the trek of a lifetime? Or have you trekked Kokoda yourself? Let us know in the comments.

The post Planning and Trekking the Kokoda Track appeared first on Snowys Blog.

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tumblueberry · 8 years ago

Text

OC Interview

RULES

1. PICK ONE OF YOUR CHARACTERS

2. FILL IN THE QUESTIONS/STATEMENTS AS IF YOU ARE BEING INTERVIEWED FOR AN ARTICLE AND YOU WERE YOUR MUSE.

3. TAG PEOPLE TO DO THIS MEME.

Stole this from @queen-scribbles and @galagraphia because they did it for their Watchers in PoE and I want in too :) Not gonna tag any of you guys, but if you have a Watcher too I’d love to hear from them!<3

1. WHAT IS YOUR NAME?

It’s Arianna.

2. WHAT IS YOUR REAL NAME?

Ah, do you want the whole thing...? I’d be called Arianna dels Clau when my mother lived, so if you need a surname, feel free to use that.

3. DO YOU KNOW WHY YOU WERE CALLED THAT?

I never asked my mother, but she never told me we had any relatives with the same name or if it meant anything for her, so I guess she just liked it. Clau, though, comes from the fact that my parents kept the keys of most of the stuff whe had around the caravans. They made sure everything was safe... kind of like housekeepers but on the road? Never used that name myself, I left the caravan when mother passed away.

4. ARE YOU SINGLE OR TAKEN?

Before this goes further, I’m not open to flirting with strangers, thanks for your interest.

But yeah, single.

5. HAVE ANY ABILITIES OR POWERS?

HAH! *coughs* Guess I am pretty good at giving people hope and keeping bad guys away, besides the fact that now I can read souls and talk to the dead not only because I’m a priest of Berath.

6. STOP BEING A GARY STU.

Weary stew...? Or... is that Glanfathan? I’m sorry, I can’t speak that language. We can talk in Vailian if you want to, though!

7. WHAT’S YOUR EYE COLOR?

Brown, as you can see *smiles warmly*

8. HOW ABOUT YOUR HAIR COLOR?

Brown also! If you’re asking because you see some parts slightly lighter that’s caused by so many hours walking under the sun. That can damage your hair pretty badly... and I haven’t been very careful lately...

9. HAVE YOU ANY FAMILY MEMBERS?

None that I know of. Father passed away when I was a kid, mother followed him a few years ago and left the caravan after that... I guess they were kind of a family for a while, but no relatives left, no.

10. OH? WHAT ABOUT PETS?

Oh, good! I like to talk about our pets. They ours, all of the team takes care of them, their our responsibility! How can you leave those poor creatures on their own? These are dark times, animals suffer the most... So far we’ve resqued a few dogs, I let Éder take care of them because he loves them so much, it’s adorable! But I keep a couple of spiders, a little white dragon and two cats. I make sure all are taken care of play with them when we have some time. I can’t wait to finish the reforms at Caed Nua so they all have their on little beds, toys and plenty of space to play and sleep and be happy!

11. NOW TELL ME ABOUT SOMETHING YOU DON’T LIKE.

Hmm. I don’t like bullies and liars. I try to forgive and give second chances, but when it’s others who are suffering I can’t be that... grey. I also don’t like to walk under the rain.

12. DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES/ACTIVITIES YOU LIKE DOING?

Playing with our pets! Taking naps by the fire in my room at Caed Nua, listening to Kana’s music, and dancing! I like helping around at this... home we’re building together, fixing doors, painting walls, all that stuff... It’s relaxing.

13. EVER HURT ANYONE BEFORE?

Sadly, yes. I guess you could add that to the list of things I don’t like.

14. EVER….KILLED ANYONE BEFORE?

Yes. Not for pleasure. Never.

15. WHAT KIND OF ANIMAL ARE YOU?

Er... I guess if I had to pick an animal I relate to the most, I don’t know, I like dogs?

16. NAME YOUR WORST HABITS.

Some people say I shouldn’t ask so many questions. Others say I shouldn’t be so nice to strangers, or give them money, or turn down the money they want to give me after I find their stuff in the woods. What I SAY is that I shouldn’t talk to Berath while I’m on the bathroom or wash the blood out of my clothes before I go to talk to people... especially at little towns where people can get very scared of, you know, strangers bathed in blood.

17. DO YOU LOOK UP TO ANYONE AT ALL?

Mother. She was the kindest person I’ve ever known. As well as the priest I learned the most of when I left the caravan. I aspire to be as kind hearted and selfless, to keep the balance in the world, to help others.

18. GAY, STRAIGHT, OR BISEXUAL?

*Takes a long breath* And I thought we were getting deep with the questions. As I said before: I’m not open to flirting with strangers, it makes me feel uncomfortable and it’s creepy. But yeah, I guess I like men...?

19. DO YOU GO TO SCHOOL?

Haven’t been in any. I learnt everything from the adults when I lived on the road and then had to read a lot and learnt a lot of other stuff when I left it and joined the priests of Berath.

20. DO YOU EVER WANT TO MARRY AND HAVE KIDS ONE DAY?

I... uhm. Hmf. I never really found it apealing but who knows. I see why people would like to do it, though, so... If I ever find a nice man who’d want to, perhaps?

21. DO YOU HAVE ANY FANBOYS/FANGIRLS?

Nah, I don’t think so. Uhm. Now that I think about it, people is starting to recognize me on the street of some towns and some roads, that’s weird.

22. WHAT ARE YOU MOST AFRAID OF?

And back to the deep questions! Heh! *sigh* I guess I’m afraid of losing myself to this Watcher thing. I’ve seen what an awakening can do to people, I wouldn’t like to experience it in my own flesh. Losing your mind like that... Losing the ones I love, the friends I’ve met in this crazy journey, too. I’m not very fond of losing things I cherish as you can see.

23. WHAT DO YOU USUALLY WEAR?

Something practical and personal enough to feel comfortable in it. My armor for my travels, good pair of shoes for walking, warm clothes when it’s cold... but I’m not afraid of pretty dresses, bows and lace either! One can look nice and kick bandits’ asses. Although I don’t recommend kicking asses while wearing heels.

24. DO YOU LOVE SOMEONE?

No... no? I mean I love our pets! And my new friends. They’ve helped me so much through all this crazyness. It’s nice to have them arround. Especially Aloth and Éder, they’ve been there from the very beginning of my travels in these lands and haven’t left me yet, must be a good sign, right? Hahah! I hope it is. Well, I hope he- theeey don’t leave me. Next question!

25. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WET YOURSELF?

*Looks into the interviewers eyes and raises a brow in silence* [Estoic].

....

When I was 5 maybe? I don’t know, man. If this is the direction the interview is going I rather go back to think about my feelings, thanks.

26. WELL, IT’S NOT OVER YET!

*Looks into the interviewers eyes and raises a brow in silence AGAIN* [Estoic].

27. WHAT CLASS ARE YOU? (HIGH CLASS, MIDDLE CLASS, LOW CLASS)

Hah. Living on the road for most of my life I guess I’m low class. Or was. With all this stuff about Caed Nua people is starting to call me LADY Arianna, isn’t it weird? But it’s nice, really, I’m not complaining, hahaha!

28. HOW MANY FRIENDS DO YOU HAVE?

Now? So many! I’m meeting the most interesting people in my travels, never thought I’d do so well on my own. Especially after all that... accident with the first caravan I worked with in these lands... But things aren’t that bad now! I’m learning a lot from all my friends and I couldn’t wish for better company! *Looks at Durance* Well... most of times.

29. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON PIE?

All of them are perfect and I’d like one, please and thank you.

30. FAVOURITE DRINK?

Water if I’m thirsty, anything if I want to get drunk.

31. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE?

Oh I used to love when we traveled near a beach, I like the sound of the waves. But now that we are re-building Caed Nua, I think I like to go to the towers and look at the place. Just be there and look at that piece of land. And my room there, I never thought it would be so nice to have one. I feel relaxed and safe surrounded by my friends there.

32. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SOMEONE~

No...? No. Nah, I don’t think so, I can’t, I don’t think, I mean, it’s not like it’s happening anyways so why bother? He’s got nice eyes, that’s all, I don’t have a crush, hahahahahaha. No.

33. WHAT’S YOUR BRA CUP SIZE AND/OR HOW BIG IS YOUR WILLY?

Okay, dear, I don’t like to be harsh but asking those questions is rude, you may make people uncomfortable, like it’s the case, or furious, like it might be the case in a few minutes if you don’t stop. Next question?

34. WOULD YOU RATHER SWIM IN THE LAKE OR THE OCEAN?

No THIS question I like! Definitely the ocean. The beach is still on of my favourite places to go, and almot any beach is perfect to go for a swim. It was very nice to be near the coast when we traveled to Defiance Bay.

35. WHAT’S YOUR TYPE?

Of what? OH! Back at it, I see. I... like men with pretty eyes and pretty hair, I guess. Someone I can enjoy a quiet time at the library? Share some thoughts and drinks? Someone who appreciates my silence too, sometimes I rather keep to myself. He’s- should be okay with my, ehr, condition, I suppose. Next question?

36. ANY FETISHES?

I’m a priest of Berath but I’m not very fond of fetishes. Wait, what do you- Ah. No.

37. SEME OR UKE? TOP OR BOTTOM? DOMINANT OR SUBMISSIVE?

Again, I’m Vailian, I don’t- I’m not good with other languages really. About the rest of this weird question, I’m not answering,dear, that’s also very rude.

38. CAMPING OR INDOORS?

That’s better. I suppose I can say that technically I’ve been camping my whole life, so that’s the default for me. Although if you think a caravan can be considered “indoors” then definitely I prefer to sleep indoors. Nowadays I’m getting used to sleep at inns or my own room. I’m not complaining! Hahah!

39. ARE YOU WANTING THE QUIZ TO END?

I don’t mean to be rude, dear, but I think we’ve talked for long enough and some questiong were a bit out of place, to be honest, so I think we can part ways and go back to work. So much to do! So little time! Thanks for your time, ask for whatever you need at the exist, have a nice day!

#oc meme #Arianna #now she has a surname xD #and some backstory #sorry if it's a bit messy #sorry for the typos and crappy grammar as well xD #my PoE stuff #the watcher

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topfygad · 5 years ago

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10 most (seemingly) dangerous things we’ve done

Six years after we quit our jobs to travel around the world, we revisit some of the riskiest things we’ve done on the road

1. Changed a tyre in Namibia’s lion territory

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So – Peter suggested changing the tyre in lion territory. I was to keep watch and sound the horn if I saw any movement.

Atlas & Boots A lion lazes in Etosha National Park

Half a kilometre down the road, we stopped laughing. There, we spotted a lion lazing beneath a tree and we realised that this story could have easily ended differently.

2. Climbed three of the seven summits

Peter has climbed three of the seven summits: Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Elbrus in Russia and Mount Aconcagua in Argentina with each climb growing progressively harder.

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3. Crossed a landslide in Peru

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Peter and I were comparatively cavalier, but I look back now and can see that a single misstep would have ended badly.

4. Hiked to Erta Ale in Ethiopia

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In 2012, an attack by Afar rebels left five tourists dead and four people kidnapped, and there was a deadly incident days after our own visit.

It made us reflect once again on the pros and cons of risky travel and though Erta Ale was an incredible sight, I’m not quite sure I’d do it all again.

5. Jumped out of a plane – twice

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Either way, I was pleased that the weather didn’t cancel our jump. As I say in the video, it’s the closest I’ll ever get to flying… unless I take up BASE jumping that is.

6. Jumped one of the longest bungys in the world

Atlas & Boots Kia mid-way through her jump

On the ledge, I waved gingerly to the camera and listened to the countdown: ‘three, two, one, bungy’. Heart lurching, I leapt off with a scream.

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7. Dived with sharks in the Galápagos

Again, this was more fun than dangerous, but when people see the footage of Peter gliding into the frame above a reef shark, they’re usually inclined to gasp out loud.

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8. Drove the Sani Pass in Lesotho

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We crossed the pass during our 2018 trip to South Africa. The progress was extremely slow but we didn’t complain. This is one occasion when it truly is better to be safe than sorry.

9. Swam with whale sharks in Djibouti

The whale shark is the largest known fish species living today. It poses no threat to humans, but its sheer size can be overwhelming.

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Atlas & Boots A whale shark swims past Kia

His skin glittered in the light and I held my breath as he swam so close I thought his tail would hit me as he turned. His enormous bulk slid swiftly by and I exhaled, long, soft and slow.

10. Scaled a via ferrata in Catalonia

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I gathered my nerves and continued up. At the top, neither Peter nor our guide, Jordi, believed me when I said that it was scarier than bungy.

Through personal anecdotes mixed with succinct travel advice, we share everything we’ve learnt about life on the road in Don’t Offer Papaya: 101 Tips for Your First Time Around the World.

Lead image: Atlas & Boots

source http://cheaprtravels.com/10-most-seemingly-dangerous-things-weve-done/

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goflanagan · 6 years ago

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Common Space Myths Debunked By Astronaut Chris Hadfield

Space is a mystery and a fascination to most of us. We read so much information about living in space and the effects that space can have on the human body that we do not always know what to believe.

In the video below, retired astronaut Chris Hadfield debunks common space myths and answers the questions that will help us understand what it is really like to live in space.

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Astronaut Chris Hadfield Debunks Space Myths

The questions below summarise common misunderstandings that people have about space.

1. What Happens To A Person In Space Without A Space Suit?

After about 10 seconds or so, your skin and the tissue underneath will begin to swell as the water in your body starts to vaporise in the absence of atmospheric pressure. You won’t balloon to the point of exploding, though, since human skin is strong enough to keep from bursting; and, if you’re brought back to atmospheric pressure, your skin and tissue will return to normal.

Because you will be exposed to unfiltered cosmic radiation, you can expect some nasty sunburn, and you’ll probably also get a case of decompression sickness.You would not, however, freeze straight away, despite the extremely cold temperatures; heat does not leave the body quickly enough for you to freeze before you suffocate, due to the lack of both convection and conduction.

f you do die in space, your body will not decompose in the normal way, since there is no oxygen. If you were near a source of heat, your body would mummify; if you were not, it would freeze. If your body was sealed in a space suit, it would decompose, but only for as long as the oxygen lasted.

https://www.cnet.com/news/what-happens-to-the-unprotected-human-body-in-space/

2. Do You Need To Exercise In Space?

On Earth, except while sleeping, human beings are always moving against the force of gravity, with their muscles and bones supporting their body. In space, however, the body does not need to do this supporting work, since there is no force of gravity. This has an adverse effect on the body with the bones and muscles becoming weaker.

In order to keep the body working, the astronauts need a proper amount of exercise. They will exercise approximately two hours every day using exercise machines, such as treadmills and ergometers.

The treadmill is a machine on which, the astronauts do running exercises with their bodies strapped to it. The Ergometer is a machine similar to a bicycle without wheels. The amount of exercise can be adjusted by changing the pedal’s pressure.

http://iss.jaxa.jp/kids/en/life/06.html

Exercise is an important part of the daily routine for astronauts aboard the station to prevent bone and muscle loss. On average, astronauts exercise two hours per day. The equipment they use is different than what we use on Earth. Lifting 200 pounds on Earth may be a lot of work. But lifting that same object in space would be much easier. Because of microgravity, it would weigh much less than 200 pounds there. That means exercise equipment needs to be specially designed for use in space so astronauts will receive the workout needed.

https://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/stem-on-station/ditl_exercising

3. Does Space Have A Smell?

Though a pure, unadulterated whiff of outer space is impossible for humans (it’s a vacuum after all; we would die if we tried), when astronauts are outside the ISS, space-borne compounds adhere to their suits and hitch a ride back into the station. Astronauts have reported smelling “burned” or “fried” steak after a space walk, and they aren’t just dreaming of a home-cooked meal.

The smell of space is so distinct that, three years ago, NASA reached out to Steven Pearce of the fragrance maker Omega Ingredients to re-create the odor for its training simulations. “Recently we did the smell of the moon,” Pearce says. “Astronauts compared it to spent gunpowder.”

https://www.popsci.com/science/article/2013-07/what-does-space-smell

4. Will Travelling At The Speed Of Light Prevent Ageing?

When traveling at speeds near the speed of light special relativity says that time is dilated. Thus relative to another inertial frame (where perhaps a stationary twin sits) time for the moving twin is slowing down. Hence the stationary twin is aging faster. While the moving twin remains in an inertial frame (that is, continues to move at a constant velocity) the moving twin will observe time running slower for the stationary twin. If they could ever be at the same place and the same point of time again, someone would have to be wrong! This is the Paradox.

The rub is in trying to get the twins back together at the same place and the same time so they can compare their ages. That’s the ‘return’ in your question. This will necessarily require a change in velocity — hence an acceleration. But an accelerating frame is not an inertial frame. Thus, without knowing the details of how we bring the twins together, there really is no way to say for sure who will be older — but in most cases it will be the travelling twin.

https://www.physlink.com/education/askexperts/ae260.cfm

5. Do Explosions Make A Sound In Space?

In empty space, there is no air, and what we call “sound” is actually vibrations in the air. Now, like you’ve said, there are indeed light waves and radio waves in space, but these waves are not sound, but light. Light does not need air to travel, but then you don’t hear it; you see it, or it is interpreted by your radio set and then translated into sound.

Astronauts in space do talk to each other. In the spacecraft, there is plenty of air, so they just talk normally. When they are spacewalking, they talk by means of radios in their helmets. The radio waves, again, have no problem in space, but they’re not sound. They’re radio, which has to be converted into sound by the astronauts’ headsets.

So say you were in a spaceship in the middle of a big space battle and a nearby ship exploded. The exploding ship would release gases and technically sound could travel along with them. However, since space is a vacuum, these gases will spread out very rapidly and the density will drop off very fast with distance from the explosion. (If you think about it, the amount of air in the ship is probably not very large compared to the volume of space between two ships.) So by the time the explosion reached your ship nearby, any sounds carried by the gas would still be too faint to hear.

http://curious.astro.cornell.edu/about-us/150-people-in-astronomy/space-exploration-and-astronauts/general-questions/918-can-you-hear-sounds-in-space-beginner

6. Is Spinning A Ship The Only Way To Create Gravity?

If you change the velocity of the spacecraft, you will have an acceleration. If this acceleration is in the direction from the feet to head of the astronaut, there will also be a force from the floor pushing up and the astronaut will feel an apparent weight. Of course it would be quite difficult to continue to accelerate by speeding up for a significant time (but not impossible).

There is another way to have an acceleration for an astronaut and it has to do with the vector nature of velocity. The acceleration depends on the change in velocity. Since velocity is a vector, changing either the magnitude or the direction of the velocity will result in an acceleration. Boom. There’s your answer. If you just move in a circle (at a constant speed), you will change direction all the time and be accelerating.

https://www.wired.com/2014/10/physics-spinning-spacecraft-interstellar/

7. Is Nasa Working On Warp Speed?

Ever since the sound barrier was broken, people have turned their attention to how we can break the light speed barrier. But “Warp Drive” or any other term for faster-than-light travel still remains at the level of speculation.

The bulk of scientific knowledge concludes that it’s impossible, especially when considering Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. There are certainly some credible concepts in scientific literature, however it’s too soon to know if they are viable.

Science fiction writers have given us many images of interstellar travel, but traveling at the speed of light is simply imaginary at present.

In the meantime, science moves forward. And while NASA is not pursuing interstellar flight, scientists here continue to advance ion propulsion for missions to deep space and beyond using solar electric power. This form of propulsion is the fastest and most efficient to date.

There are many “absurd” theories that have become reality over the years of scientific research. But for the near future, warp drive remains a dream.

https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/technology/warp/warp.html

8. Can You Survive Interstellar Travel By Freezing Yourself?

It is impossible to prove experimentally that the ideas of the cryonists are possible as no one has learned to revive people yet. Although it has already been proved, for example, that if you freeze threadworms alive, they retain conditioned reflexes after awakening (if they survive, of course — this is not possible for everyone). But many scientists consider such experiments unconvincing. “In my opinion, this is a purely commercial exploitation of the dream of an afterlife,” said Yevgeny Aleksandrov, Ph.D. in Physical and Mathematical sciences, the head of the RAS commission which stands up to the pseudoscience. “Mankind will hardly ever find a cure for all diseases because it means the recipe for immortality. I don’t believe in eternal life and suppose that it would be terrible: the evolutionary process will stop”.

https://medium.com/cryogen/between-life-and-death-how-to-freeze-yourself-and-wake-up-in-future-1ff8715abf80

9. Can You Fly Into The Stratosphere With A High Altitude Balloon?

Weather balloons can rise to an altitude of 24 miles (39 kilometers) or more before they burst, and a payload may land (via parachute) up to 75 miles (120 km) away, depending on wind conditions at the launch site, Maydell said.

Though outer space doesn’t technically begin until you get 62 miles (100 km) above Earth’s surface, the views are still great from 24 miles up. At that altitude, the sky is black and the curvature of the Earth is clearly visible, Maydell said.

“It’s about the closest an average person can get to being in space, and you can do it for about the price of a nice iPad,” Maydell said.

https://www.space.com/20089-near-space-balloons-science.html

10. Will Your Body Grow Taller During Space Travel?

Astronauts in space can grow up to 3 percent taller during the time spent living in microgravity, NASA scientists say. That means that a 6-foot-tall (1.8 meters) person could gain as many as 2 inches (5 centimeters) while in orbit.

Past studies have shown that when the spine is not exposed to the pull of Earth’s gravity, the vertebra can expand and relax, allowing astronauts to actually grow taller. That small gain is short lived, however. Once the astronauts return to Earth, their height returns to normal after a few months. But still, scientists haven’t been able to examine the astronaut’s spinal columns when experiencing the effects of microgravity until now.

https://www.space.com/19116-astronauts-taller-space-spines.html

11. Does Bacteria Multiply Faster In Space?

The E. coli in space showed a 73 percent reduction in their volume, giving the bacteria much less surface area that can be exposed to antibiotic molecules, Dvorsky reports. Along with this shrinkage, the cell membranes of the E. coli grew at least 25 percent thicker, making it even harder for any antibiotic molecules to pass through them. And the defense mechanisms weren’t only the individual level—the E. coli also showed a greater propensity for growing together in clumps, leaving the bacteria on the edges open to danger, but insulating those within from exposure to the antibiotics.

All of these differences allowed the E. coli on the International Space Station to grow to 13 times the population of the same bacteria grown on Earth under the same conditions, according to the study. And understanding why and how these defense mechanisms form could help doctors better prevent the scourge of antibiotic resistance here on Earth.

Perhaps even more terrifying, compared to the bacteria grown in the same conditions on Earth, the space-bound E. coli developed fluid-filled sacs called vesicles on their cell membranes, giving them tools that can make them even better at infecting other cells. This means that astro-bacteria could make people ill more easily, creating an infection that is harder to treat.

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/bacteria-space-are-harder-kill-180964887/

source http://spacetalkblog.com/common-space-myths-debunked-by-astronaut-chris-hadfield/

#spaceexploration sciencefiction

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reputationiseverything · 6 years ago

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SEO Isn’t the Only Way to Drive Traffic. Here Are 6 Alternative Strategies.

email marketing done right

As marketers, we invest a lot of our time and energy into SEO.

Considering that Google receives over 66,000 searches every second, we’d be stupid not to.

But when it comes down to it, Google and other search engines are just one of the many ways you can drive traffic to your website.

In fact, depending on your target audience and competition, Google may not even be your best traffic source.

Take Upworthy, for example.

This site, which has a reputation for sharing feel-good viral videos, gets almost 43% of their traffic from social and less than 19% from search.

Groups of consumers all use the web differently.

Some like to get their content from friends or influencers on social.

A few depend on their trusted newsletters to tell them what content they need to read.

Others use an alternative search engine like YouTube or even Facebook.

To prove that you don’t need Google to drive traffic to your website, here are six alternatives that can help boost your visits.

Create a YouTube channel

Start conversations on social

Partner with influencers

Take advantage of your email subscribers

Provide assistance on forums and question sites

Take advantage of guest posting

1. Create a YouTube channel

YouTube has 1.5 billion active users each month, making it the world’s second-largest social platform.

With 1.5 billion active users each month, YouTube is the world’s second-largest social platform.

Over 30 million users log on to watch a total of 5 billion videos each and every day.

These numbers are massive.

However, these numbers still don’t rival Google, which processes about 3.5 billion searches per day.

So, how can you drive even a fraction of the traffic with YouTube that you could with Google?

Well, the beauty of YouTube is that it allows you to share videos.

While Google does display YouTube videos as part of its results lists (Google does, after all, own YouTube), the results aren’t quite the same.

In order to appeal and reach these video-lovers, you need to create YouTube content.

Because YouTube reaches more people from the ages of 18-49 than any cable network, this is particularly true if you’re marketing to younger generations.

Gen Z’s love affair with YouTube runs especially deep.

In fact, 50% of Gen Z-ers told AdWeek they wouldn’t be able to live without the sharing site.

They also shared why.

For Gen Z-ers, YouTube is more than just a video-sharing site. Look at all of the things that they go to YouTube for:

If Gen Z’s love for videos continues as they grow older and start making new purchasing decisions, this may be a major game-changer for marketing in years to come.

Uploading videos to YouTube allows you to appear in front of customers who use the site like a traditional search engine.

Then, with appropriately-placed links, you can drive those users back to your website.

Let’s take a look at how GoPro’s YouTube channel does this.

As one of the most popular YouTube channels around, GoPro uses their high-quality videos to show what their product is capable of doing.

However, simply uploading videos doesn’t drive sales.

That’s why they also make it easy for customers to get from their YouTube channel to a product page.

Here, we have a video shot users shot with the GoPro HERO6:

Right within the first couple lines of the description, viewers have a link that will bring them straight to the product page for the GoPro HERO6.

Interested customers can check out what the new camera is capable of, then easily make their way over to the GoPro website to get additional details or make a purchase.

And this isn’t the only way GoPro pushes traffic to their website.

You can also find a link to their website and their social media profiles within their cover image.

This gives YouTube users who land on the company’s channel an opportunity to get to their website quickly.

You can also add links to your website within your actual video content.

YouTube even offers features that allow users to create interactive video ads.

These features display either over the video itself or at the end of a video, prompting viewers to make the next move.

You’ll see from this chart that both call-to-action overlays and auto end screens help drive traffic to your website.

Here’s an example of a call-to-action overlay from a HubSpot video.

YouTube features the link right within the middle of the video. HubSpot timed it perfectly so that it appears when the viewer has a thorough enough understanding of inbound marketing to start feeling enticed.

Now, let’s compare this to an auto end screen.

Here’s an example from The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

This presents the viewer with a number of different options when they’ve completed a video. It includes an offer to head to the NBC website to download the show’s app.

When using either of these interactive features, be sure to provide a clear and direct value to your watcher.

Also, keep in mind that you don’t want to plaster over your video with links to dozens of content pieces.

Instead, focus on just one or two that truly support the contents of your video.

2. Start conversations on social

If you do it correctly, social can rival Google as a traffic source.

According to Sprout Social, 48% of Millennials and 48% of Gen X-ers followed a brand on social media in Q1 of 2017.

This means you have less noise to cut through to get to your target audience.

Additionally, social provides you with an opportunity to engage and entertain – something you’ll struggle to do on a search engine.

When social users scroll through their timelines and news feeds, they’re looking for just about anything that will pique their interest.

If you’re capable of providing something high-quality and interesting, they’ll click through to your site to check out more.

However, it’s important to recognize how social is changing for brands.

In 2017, social accounted for 25.6% of all site visits.

But this number is actually down from past years.

From the same study, we can see that from about the end of 2013 to the beginning of 2017, social was outperforming search for driving traffic.

Unfortunately, the changes to the Facebook algorithm led to serious declines in organic reach on the platform.

Compared to the first half of 2017, Facebook saw about a 9% drop in social media referrals in the second half of the year.

However, one social site’s loss is another’s gain.

While Facebook saw a large dip at the end of 2017, both Pinterest and Instagram saw some pretty significant jumps.

Regardless of the social networks you choose to target, you want to provide meaningful and valuable information.

Remember that users log onto social to engage with their friends – not to have someone sell them something.

You want to find ways to engage your user while they’re still on the platform.

Buzzfeed Tasty does an excellent job at this.

Within their Facebook post, they include it all.

They created a video to grab attention.

They have friendly messages that establish the viewer as their friend.

And they include not one but two links that can either push the user to buy or to check out the recipe from the video.

And they do all of that without making it feel overwhelming!

This tactic has gained the Tasty Facebook page serious attention – almost 95 million followers!

To replicate this for your own audience, know your audience and create social content that blends seamlessly into their timelines.

Another way to get a conversation started is to use Twitter threads.

Twitter threads allow you to share insights, tips, and thoughts that connect by replying to yourself – and they have the power to bring you viral attention.

Check out what happened to travel blogger Hey Ciara.

On January 1st, she started this thread.

With this one thread alone, Ciara gained over 13,000 new Twitter followers, 6,000 new Instagram followers, and a 10x increase in her blog traffic.

Threads like these provide a distinct value to followers in a relatable way.

After sharing her secrets, Ciara drops a link to a blog post on her website containing more information.

Though the engagement with the link is significantly less than the first post, it was still able to drive traffic.

She already established authority with her followers in the thread. They trust her and know that she has information worth sharing. That gives them a reason to click on the link.

Creating a Twitter thread typically takes minimal effort. However, you want to be prepared to keep the momentum going.

Know the direction you’re going to take before you begin and be ready to share images, videos, or links that support your claims.

3. Partner with influencers

There are a lot of scams on the web, making shoppers wary about who they choose to purchase from.

If they’ve never heard of a business, they’re not going to pull out their credit cards after seeing just one ad.

Before they’re ready to shop, they need to trust you.

Unfortunately, it takes time to build trust organically.

However, you can speed up that process by working with influencers.

Almost nine out of ten individuals say that they trust online recommendations as much as personal recommendations.

Influencer marketing gives your content a “stamp of approval” from someone your audience already values. This dramatically cuts down on the trust-building process.

There are two main ways that you can get in touch with influencers.

First, you can use the more traditional pathway of having influencers share sponsored posts.

Here’s an example of a sponsored post from Emma Blackery.

The National Citizen Service (NCS) sponsored the ad. In the UK, they offer kids from 15-17 years old a camp-like, professional development opportunity.

By sharing this post, Emma is bringing awareness to NCS while also vouching for its validity.

She also includes a link to the company’s homepage, encouraging her followers to check out the organization more.

Within just five hours, Emma’s post gained over 480 likes, 38 retweets, and 24 comments.

Compared to the handful of likes NCS’s own posts get, this kind of attention is huge.

Paying for advertisements can give you more control as a brand.

If you’re a small business or you have a limited marketing budget, it might not be right for you.

But even if you don’t have money to invest in influencer marketing, you can appeal to influencers for free by featuring them in your own content.

Posts like this one from Comm100 are a great way to connect with several influencers at once.

This not only gives you free promotion, but it can also help you create long-term relationships with influencers and experts you might want to partner with in the future.

If you choose to use this kind of content, have realistic expectations.

It isn’t likely that each influencer you mention will share the post, especially if they already have a large following.

However, reaching out to each expert to let them know that you’ve featured them might help you get a few new shares and a boost in web traffic.

One way of reaching out is to present a quote.

In this Twitter post from Jitesh Patil, he pulled a quote from Robbie Richards and then tagged him in the tweet.

This gained Robbie’s attention, so he retweeted it to his own audience.

This kind of outreach makes it easy for the influencer to share your content. With just one click of a button, they’ve done their job.

You can also reach out via direct message. This is one of Gary Vaynerchuk’s favorite ways to network.

According to Gary, “the key is to connect first, provide value, and THEN given the right opportunity presents itself, ASK.”

This kind of relationship can help you establish long-term relationships with influencers.

4. Take advantage of your email subscribers

The conversation about whether or not email is dying has been happening for years.

Many markers are quick to support social or mobile apps over email marketing.

However, in Adobe’s 2017 Consumer Email Survey Report, they found that email was the preferred form of contact for 61% of survey participants.

In fact, email was the only contact method that actually improved between 2016 and 2017.

But user preference isn’t the only thing that email marketing has over other contact methods.

The average click-through rate is also much higher.

For email, the average click-through rate is 3.42%.

While this might seem low, the average click-through rate for Facebook Ads is only 0.90%.

This means that you’re much more likely to get web traffic from your email subscribers than your social profiles.

And that starts with personalization.

Here’s an example of personalization from LinkedIn.

LinkedIn takes a user’s location, job title, and qualifications and provides unique job recommendations for them.

This goes far beyond simply changing the name at the top of a message. For best results, you need to personalize the email’s body, too.

According to research, personalizing email bodies has a dramatic effect on open rates and click-through-rates.

Open rates are almost 7% higher with a personalized email body, and click-through rates jump by over 1.3%.

You can also personalize the sender name for even stronger click-through-rate results.

Take this example from HubSpot.

When they sent a message from “Maggie Georgieva, HubSpot,” there was a 0.50% higher open rate and 0.25% higher click-through rate than when they sent the email from just “HubSpot.”

For HubSpot, this meant that a personalized sender generated 292 more clicks.

To improve click-through rates even further, you also want to optimize your emails for mobile.

In the study from Adobe that we looked at above, we see that users are much more likely to check their personal email on a smartphone than a desktop or laptop.

Make it easy for your email subscribers to get back to your website regardless of the screen they’re viewing your message on.

Use CTA buttons rather than in-text links and keep your messages short and to the point.

Provide enough information to pique your reader’s interest, but your end goal should always be to push to subscribers back to your site.

5. Provide assistance on forums and question sites

People have a lot of questions.

And they don’t exclusively turn to Google to get their answers.

Users turn to forums and question sites.

Participating in conversations on sites like Reddit for Quora can help you attract individuals looking for answers beyond what Google can provide.

With over 330 million users, Reddit is the fourth most-visited website in the US.

Although Google, YouTube, and Facebook outrank the site in terms of popularity, Reddit beats them all based on the average amount of time that users spend on the site.

Reddit can be a great place to promote your site. However, you need to be strategic with how you go about it.

Most subreddits have strict rules about what you can and can’t say in their comments.

Each subreddit has a moderator. If you post the wrong material, they’ll delete your post and potentially even ban your account.

Users turn to forums like Reddit for help – not to have someone sell to them.

But that doesn’t mean that you can’t use Reddit to drive traffic to your site.

One of the best ways to do it successfully is through an “ask me anything” session, or an AMA.

Here’s an example of a successful AMA from Student Loan Hero.

While the post is promoting the business, it’s more focused on providing Reddit users with valuable information about paying off debt.

By answering questions, Student Loan Hero is able to improve trust with Reddit users and get them interested in the brand.

They also find ways to link to their content and tools as they answer questions.

Here is an example.

Student Loan Hero isn’t using this platform as a way to spit out ads.

Instead, they’re framing their content to fit the unique needs of each individual asking questions.

If you’re trying to be spammy on Reddit, users will be quick to call you out.

However, you can still see a lot of success from the platform by making your value clear.

Jeff Callahan, creator of one of the most successful Reddit posts, says that success on the platform begins with a “non-clickbaity” title.

He begins his post by sharing who he is and how he relates to the other users. Then, he communicates exactly what he has to say and why he’s credible enough to say it.

He then follows these same ideas throughout his post, always relating back to the user before providing tips or insights he can back up with personal experience.

If you use it wisely, Reddit can be a great place to bring visitors to your website.

You can also use Quora, which has 200 million unique monthly visitors, to answer questions from potential audience members.

Here’s an example of how I responded to a Quora question.

Like Reddit, Quora allows you to engage with individuals who are asking questions. Answering questions helps you prove your value to them before they head to your website.

This can encourage more traffic to your page.

Kevin Lee, founder of Product Manager HQ, attributes his business’s start and growth to Quora.

According to his post about how Quora changed his life, Kevin explains that Quora brought thousands of new subscribers to his blog.

He says that people in public have even recognized him from his Quora answers.

If you’re in a niche industry, there are other forums you may want to take advantage of.

For example, marketers may want to become active on Inbound.org while lawyers should check out Avvo.

6. Take advantage of guest posting

Guest posting can be a powerful way to bring new traffic to your website.

About 57% of business bloggers use guest posting as part of their content strategy.

Some major brands even used guest blogging to get their platforms off the ground.

For example, Buffer used guest blogging to grow their site to 100,000 users in their first nine months.

When looking for guest posting opportunities, you want to find sites that are within your niche but aren’t direct competitors.

Hosting a post on another website puts your content in front of a new audience, driving new leads back to your page.

Check out this example of a guest post on Entrepreneur.

As you can see, Dan Dowling, the guest author in this example, has links to his Facebook page, Twitter account, and website homepage.

Guest posting on other websites isn’t the only way to use the strategy to drive traffic.

You can also feature guest posts on your own site.

This not only gives you a bit of a break in your content schedule, but it also encourages guest posters to share links to your page.

Here’s an example from ProBlogger.

ProBlogger benefits from this post because the author, Larry Alton, will want to advertise that they’re featuring him on their site.

Each time Larry promotes the piece, ProBlogger gets a new wave of traffic.

But blogging isn’t your only option.

You can also appear on podcasts or webinars to share your opinion and expertise.

Here’s an example from SEMrush’s Search Marketing Scoop with David Bain.

In this episode, both Barry Schwartz, News Editor at Search Engine Land, and Richard Fergie, a consultant at E-Analytica, jump on the podcast to talk about paid and organic search.

These types of partnerships typically take more time, but they can provide serious returns in the end.

You want to think of what podcasts or webinars your audience may be engaging with that aren’t your direct competitors.

Conclusion

You don’t need Google to drive traffic to your website.

Sure, it helps.

But it shouldn’t be your only traffic source.

In fact, for the most success, you should have multiple pathways bringing new traffic to you.

Use these six traffic-generating sources as a starting point for diversifying how you bring in new visitors.

Pay close attention to your customers and target audience.

If they’re not responding to a particular pathway, don’t waste your time.

When you provide what they’re looking for in an avenue they’re already engaging with, traffic will flock to your page.

What are some of the best traffic sources for your website outside of SEO?

About the Author: Neil Patel is the cofounder of Neil Patel Digital.

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reviewandbonuss · 6 years ago

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SEO Isn’t the Only Way to Drive Traffic. Here Are 6 Alternative Strategies.

As marketers, we invest a lot of our time and energy into SEO.

Considering that Google receives over 66,000 searches every second, we’d be stupid not to.

But when it comes down to it, Google and other search engines are just one of the many ways you can drive traffic to your website.

In fact, depending on your target audience and competition, Google may not even be your best traffic source.

Take Upworthy, for example.

This site, which has a reputation for sharing feel-good viral videos, gets almost 43% of their traffic from social and less than 19% from search.

Groups of consumers all use the web differently.

Some like to get their content from friends or influencers on social.

A few depend on their trusted newsletters to tell them what content they need to read.

Others use an alternative search engine like YouTube or even Facebook.

To prove that you don’t need Google to drive traffic to your website, here are six alternatives that can help boost your visits.

Create a YouTube channel

Start conversations on social

Partner with influencers

Take advantage of your email subscribers

Provide assistance on forums and question sites

Take advantage of guest posting

1. Create a YouTube channel

YouTube has 1.5 billion active users each month, making it the world’s second-largest social platform.

With 1.5 billion active users each month, YouTube is the world’s second-largest social platform.

Over 30 million users log on to watch a total of 5 billion videos each and every day.

These numbers are massive.

However, these numbers still don’t rival Google, which processes about 3.5 billion searches per day.

So, how can you drive even a fraction of the traffic with YouTube that you could with Google?

Well, the beauty of YouTube is that it allows you to share videos.

While Google does display YouTube videos as part of its results lists (Google does, after all, own YouTube), the results aren’t quite the same.

In order to appeal and reach these video-lovers, you need to create YouTube content.

Because YouTube reaches more people from the ages of 18-49 than any cable network, this is particularly true if you’re marketing to younger generations.

Gen Z’s love affair with YouTube runs especially deep.

In fact, 50% of Gen Z-ers told AdWeek they wouldn’t be able to live without the sharing site.

They also shared why.

For Gen Z-ers, YouTube is more than just a video-sharing site. Look at all of the things that they go to YouTube for:

If Gen Z’s love for videos continues as they grow older and start making new purchasing decisions, this may be a major game-changer for marketing in years to come.

Uploading videos to YouTube allows you to appear in front of customers who use the site like a traditional search engine.

Then, with appropriately-placed links, you can drive those users back to your website.

Let’s take a look at how GoPro’s YouTube channel does this.

As one of the most popular YouTube channels around, GoPro uses their high-quality videos to show what their product is capable of doing.

However, simply uploading videos doesn’t drive sales.

That’s why they also make it easy for customers to get from their YouTube channel to a product page.

Here, we have a video shot users shot with the GoPro HERO6:

Right within the first couple lines of the description, viewers have a link that will bring them straight to the product page for the GoPro HERO6.

Interested customers can check out what the new camera is capable of, then easily make their way over to the GoPro website to get additional details or make a purchase.

And this isn’t the only way GoPro pushes traffic to their website.

You can also find a link to their website and their social media profiles within their cover image.

This gives YouTube users who land on the company’s channel an opportunity to get to their website quickly.

You can also add links to your website within your actual video content.

YouTube even offers features that allow users to create interactive video ads.

These features display either over the video itself or at the end of a video, prompting viewers to make the next move.

You’ll see from this chart that both call-to-action overlays and auto end screens help drive traffic to your website.

Here’s an example of a call-to-action overlay from a HubSpot video.

Now, let’s compare this to an auto end screen.

Here’s an example from The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

This presents the viewer with a number of different options when they’ve completed a video. It includes an offer to head to the NBC website to download the show’s app.

When using either of these interactive features, be sure to provide a clear and direct value to your watcher.

Also, keep in mind that you don’t want to plaster over your video with links to dozens of content pieces.

Instead, focus on just one or two that truly support the contents of your video.

2. Start conversations on social

If you do it correctly, social can rival Google as a traffic source.

According to Sprout Social, 48% of Millennials and 48% of Gen X-ers followed a brand on social media in Q1 of 2017.

This means you have less noise to cut through to get to your target audience.

Additionally, social provides you with an opportunity to engage and entertain – something you’ll struggle to do on a search engine.

When social users scroll through their timelines and news feeds, they’re looking for just about anything that will pique their interest.

If you’re capable of providing something high-quality and interesting, they’ll click through to your site to check out more.

However, it’s important to recognize how social is changing for brands.

In 2017, social accounted for 25.6% of all site visits.

But this number is actually down from past years.

From the same study, we can see that from about the end of 2013 to the beginning of 2017, social was outperforming search for driving traffic.

Unfortunately, the changes to the Facebook algorithm led to serious declines in organic reach on the platform.

Compared to the first half of 2017, Facebook saw about a 9% drop in social media referrals in the second half of the year.

However, one social site’s loss is another’s gain.

While Facebook saw a large dip at the end of 2017, both Pinterest and Instagram saw some pretty significant jumps.

Regardless of the social networks you choose to target, you want to provide meaningful and valuable information.

Remember that users log onto social to engage with their friends – not to have someone sell them something.

You want to find ways to engage your user while they’re still on the platform.

Buzzfeed Tasty does an excellent job at this.

Within their Facebook post, they include it all.

They created a video to grab attention.

They have friendly messages that establish the viewer as their friend.

And they include not one but two links that can either push the user to buy or to check out the recipe from the video.

And they do all of that without making it feel overwhelming!

This tactic has gained the Tasty Facebook page serious attention – almost 95 million followers!

To replicate this for your own audience, know your audience and create social content that blends seamlessly into their timelines.

Another way to get a conversation started is to use Twitter threads.

Twitter threads allow you to share insights, tips, and thoughts that connect by replying to yourself – and they have the power to bring you viral attention.

Check out what happened to travel blogger Hey Ciara.

On January 1st, she started this thread.

With this one thread alone, Ciara gained over 13,000 new Twitter followers, 6,000 new Instagram followers, and a 10x increase in her blog traffic.

Threads like these provide a distinct value to followers in a relatable way.

After sharing her secrets, Ciara drops a link to a blog post on her website containing more information.

Though the engagement with the link is significantly less than the first post, it was still able to drive traffic.

She already established authority with her followers in the thread. They trust her and know that she has information worth sharing. That gives them a reason to click on the link.

Creating a Twitter thread typically takes minimal effort. However, you want to be prepared to keep the momentum going.

Know the direction you’re going to take before you begin and be ready to share images, videos, or links that support your claims.

3. Partner with influencers

There are a lot of scams on the web, making shoppers wary about who they choose to purchase from.

If they’ve never heard of a business, they’re not going to pull out their credit cards after seeing just one ad.

Before they’re ready to shop, they need to trust you.

Unfortunately, it takes time to build trust organically.

However, you can speed up that process by working with influencers.

Almost nine out of ten individuals say that they trust online recommendations as much as personal recommendations.

Influencer marketing gives your content a “stamp of approval” from someone your audience already values. This dramatically cuts down on the trust-building process.

There are two main ways that you can get in touch with influencers.

First, you can use the more traditional pathway of having influencers share sponsored posts.

Here’s an example of a sponsored post from Emma Blackery.